Guide to Thailand
Guide to Thailand
Situated midway between India and China in a fertile monsoon belt, Thailand shares its borders with Myanmar (Burma), Laos, Cambodia and Malaysia. Its east coast is on the Gulf of Thailand and the west coast on the Andaman Sea. The country is divided into four main regions: the fertile, Central Plains of the Chao Phraya River; the region of the north-east plateau; the fertile valley and mountains of Northern Thailand; and the rainforested southern peninsula. Each region has its own topographical identity and subtle differences between both the people and dialects.
Capitals and major centres
It is worth putting up with the inevitable traffic jams, pollution and humid weather to experience Bangkok, easily one of Asia's most exciting cities. Known in Thai as Krung Thep, the 'City of Angels', Bangkok is the spiritual, symbolic and geographical heart of Thailand, and home to nine million people.
Chiang Mai is Thailand's second largest city and an ideal base from which to explore the mountains and villages. The region is famed for its many fine temples and handicrafts.
Ban Chiang, found in the north-eastern prov-ince of Udon Thani, is most fascinating for its archaeological site which was discovered by accident in 1966. Artefacts on display are thought to date back to around 3600 BC. Khorat, or Nakhon Ratchasima, was part of the ancient Khmer empire, and is today a rapidly expanding business centre. Along the east coast, on the Gulf of Thailand, lies Pattaya, which offers many beaches and is popular with families.
On the sunrise coast of the Gulf of Thailand are Cha-am and Hua Hin. The former has experienced a dramatic surge in popularity since the mid-'80s and catering mainly for Thais, its quiet village atmosphere has become a lot livelier. Nearby Hua Hin was Thailand's first beach resort and in the 1920s was a popular retreat for minor Thai royalty. Nowadays the King and Queen reside here when they're not in Bangkok.
Further south along the east coast, the beautiful island of Ko Samui is covered with coconut plantations and circled by palm-fringed beaches. The twin Phi Phi islands in Krabi are famed for their spectacular landscapes, while the country's largest island, Phuket, lies in the Andaman Sea off the country's south-western coast. All of these places are popular tourist destinations.
The people
The majority of Thailand's 62 million people are concentrated in the fertile Central Plains and in the capital, Bangkok. An easygoing people, Thais are known for their tolerance of other cultures and friendliness to visitors. Thai people will be offended only if there is any perceived disrespect to the king or Buddhism. Constitutional since 1932, the monarchy is revered almost as much as when kings were chakravatin, or 'lords of life'. Buddhism is the dominant religion and orange-robed monks and gold, marble and stone Buddhas are common.
Nature
One-quarter of Thailand is covered by monsoon forest or rainforest, and the country has an incredible array of fruit trees, bamboo and tropical hardwoods. National parks and wildlife sanctuaries cover 11 percent of the country and contain more than 850 resident and migratory species of birds and dwindling numbers of tigers, leopards, elephants and Asiatic black bears.
The sights
The Chao Phraya River, 'river of kings', is Thailand's most important waterway, draining some of the country's fertile rice-growing land, and providing another means of travel in Bangkok.
A few kilometres inland from Bang Saen, a beach resort popular with Bangkok residents is the Khao Kheow Open Zoo, which has more than 50 wildlife species roaming its spacious, semi-free enclosures. Stretching north from Bangkok are the picturesque Central Plains with their checkered patterns of green rice paddies. In the heart of this region is Ayutthaya, the nation's second capital. Buddha Monthon, a Buddhist park, lies on the western edge of Bangkok. Featuring a 16.25-metre statue of Buddha, the park commemorates the 2500th anniversary of the religion. Further west is the world's tallest Buddhist monument at Nakhon Prathom. Not far from there is the infamous Bridge over the River Kwai as is the newly popular "Tiger Temple" or Wat Pha Luang Tabua.
South from Chiang Mai are the numerous ruined temples of Thailand's first capital, Sukothai, founded in the early 13th century. Further north from Chiang Mai is teak country where elephants used to work in the forests, and elephants can still be seen displaying their forestry skills at several training camps. Chiang Rai is a good centre for exploring the far north, where visitors will find stunning jungle-covered mountains, hilltribe villages, and Doi Tung, a mountain where Her Royal Highness the Princess Mother has a hilltop palace.
Where to stay
While Bangkok offers some of the most superb hotels in the world, Thailand and its capital have a wealth of accommodation options, from luxury and reasonable resort accommodation, to simple comforts on islands or beaches. There are also bungalows, guesthouses and more basic native-style hotels in regions such as Chiang Mai.
Getting around
Bangkok is possibly the world's most congested city, and its traffic jams and pollution are notorious. It is, however, very easy to find transport of all kinds, including riverboats, public buses, limousines and tour buses run by hotels, as well as taxis and colourful tuk-tuks and samlors (bicycle rickshaws) which are found throughout the country. Songthaews – vans with two rows of seats in the back – are more common than city buses outside Bangkok and run popular routes for set fares. The Bangkok Metro (BMCL – Subway) operates every day from 6am until midnight every five minutes during peak hour and seven minutes in off-peak times. It is clean and extremely efficient. The BTS Skytrain covers much of the central city and its many commercial, residential and tourist areas. It has the added bonus of seeing the city from a birds eye perspective.
Food and entertainment
Renowned for its quality and diversity, Thai cuisine is as much a feast for the eyes as the stomach. And while eating for most Thai people is an informal, social activity, even the simplest of dishes is often served with a carved carrot flower or spring onion tassel, and sometimes fruit and vegetable sculptures. Meals are rich and spicy, and seafood, including crab, fish, lobster and shrimp, feature heavily.
Bangkok has restaurants of all nationalities and styles, from street stalls to elegant restaurants at deluxe hotels. The Dome at State Tower, for example, has a number of trendy bars and restaurants. Outside Bangkok, there are restaurants specialising in various national cuisines as well as the typical spicy northern delicacies.
In Chiang Mai, the best way to sample the local fare is to order a Kantok dinner which features a variety of dishes served with sticky rice. Rayong and Chanthaburi on the east coast are known for their succulent seafood as well as tropical fruits including durian, rambutans, custard apples and mangosteens.
Those looking for nightime entertainment will find all sorts of action in Bangkok. Neon-lit bar districts, pubs, discos, live music, theatre, classical dance, cultural shows, night markets and many other distractions abound. For alternative night entertainment, check out the night markets behind Ratch-aprarop Road in Pratunam. A night market in Hua Hin displays locally produced silk and cotton items and the region's famed 'kanom' Thai sweets.
Activities
Thai boxing, or Muay Thai, Thailand's national sport, is fast gaining popularity worldwide. The sport is highly ritualistic, but fights are fierce and furious. The ultra fit combatants use their elbows, knees and bare feet as well as gloved fists. Professional bouts are held almost every night at either of the two boxing stadiums in Bangkok. Golf, tennis, squash, darts and table tennis are also popular, and every imaginable watersport is available at the seaside resorts.
Shopping
The good quality, wide variety and reasonable prices of many Thai goods have long been a major attraction for tourists. Arts and crafts range from wicker rice steamers and triangular, patterned cushions to antiques. Internationally renowned Thai silks are available in a fascinating array of colours and designs. Tailors, particularly in Bangkok, can make clothes in any fabric to high standards and low prices. There are huge, modern shopping malls and other retail shops, but it is at the colourful markets at the heart of every Thai town that visitors can have fun bargaining with vendors.
Climate
The climate varies from north to south. There are three seasons, with March to May reaching 40°C. June to October is the wet season and November to February is the cool season at 27°C.
Casual clothing is worn by most visitors to Thailand. More respectable attire is recommended for top hotels and restaurants. Skimpy clothing is forbidden in religious places.
Currency
The currency is the Thai Baht. A service charge is included in most bills. Only tip for special service. Porters expect about 10 baht per piece of luggage. A tip consisting of coins is considered offensive.
Capitals and major centres
It is worth putting up with the inevitable traffic jams, pollution and humid weather to experience Bangkok, easily one of Asia's most exciting cities. Known in Thai as Krung Thep, the 'City of Angels', Bangkok is the spiritual, symbolic and geographical heart of Thailand, and home to nine million people.
Chiang Mai is Thailand's second largest city and an ideal base from which to explore the mountains and villages. The region is famed for its many fine temples and handicrafts.
Ban Chiang, found in the north-eastern prov-ince of Udon Thani, is most fascinating for its archaeological site which was discovered by accident in 1966. Artefacts on display are thought to date back to around 3600 BC. Khorat, or Nakhon Ratchasima, was part of the ancient Khmer empire, and is today a rapidly expanding business centre. Along the east coast, on the Gulf of Thailand, lies Pattaya, which offers many beaches and is popular with families.
On the sunrise coast of the Gulf of Thailand are Cha-am and Hua Hin. The former has experienced a dramatic surge in popularity since the mid-'80s and catering mainly for Thais, its quiet village atmosphere has become a lot livelier. Nearby Hua Hin was Thailand's first beach resort and in the 1920s was a popular retreat for minor Thai royalty. Nowadays the King and Queen reside here when they're not in Bangkok.
Further south along the east coast, the beautiful island of Ko Samui is covered with coconut plantations and circled by palm-fringed beaches. The twin Phi Phi islands in Krabi are famed for their spectacular landscapes, while the country's largest island, Phuket, lies in the Andaman Sea off the country's south-western coast. All of these places are popular tourist destinations.
The people
The majority of Thailand's 62 million people are concentrated in the fertile Central Plains and in the capital, Bangkok. An easygoing people, Thais are known for their tolerance of other cultures and friendliness to visitors. Thai people will be offended only if there is any perceived disrespect to the king or Buddhism. Constitutional since 1932, the monarchy is revered almost as much as when kings were chakravatin, or 'lords of life'. Buddhism is the dominant religion and orange-robed monks and gold, marble and stone Buddhas are common.
Nature
One-quarter of Thailand is covered by monsoon forest or rainforest, and the country has an incredible array of fruit trees, bamboo and tropical hardwoods. National parks and wildlife sanctuaries cover 11 percent of the country and contain more than 850 resident and migratory species of birds and dwindling numbers of tigers, leopards, elephants and Asiatic black bears.
The sights
The Chao Phraya River, 'river of kings', is Thailand's most important waterway, draining some of the country's fertile rice-growing land, and providing another means of travel in Bangkok.
A few kilometres inland from Bang Saen, a beach resort popular with Bangkok residents is the Khao Kheow Open Zoo, which has more than 50 wildlife species roaming its spacious, semi-free enclosures. Stretching north from Bangkok are the picturesque Central Plains with their checkered patterns of green rice paddies. In the heart of this region is Ayutthaya, the nation's second capital. Buddha Monthon, a Buddhist park, lies on the western edge of Bangkok. Featuring a 16.25-metre statue of Buddha, the park commemorates the 2500th anniversary of the religion. Further west is the world's tallest Buddhist monument at Nakhon Prathom. Not far from there is the infamous Bridge over the River Kwai as is the newly popular "Tiger Temple" or Wat Pha Luang Tabua.
South from Chiang Mai are the numerous ruined temples of Thailand's first capital, Sukothai, founded in the early 13th century. Further north from Chiang Mai is teak country where elephants used to work in the forests, and elephants can still be seen displaying their forestry skills at several training camps. Chiang Rai is a good centre for exploring the far north, where visitors will find stunning jungle-covered mountains, hilltribe villages, and Doi Tung, a mountain where Her Royal Highness the Princess Mother has a hilltop palace.
Where to stay
While Bangkok offers some of the most superb hotels in the world, Thailand and its capital have a wealth of accommodation options, from luxury and reasonable resort accommodation, to simple comforts on islands or beaches. There are also bungalows, guesthouses and more basic native-style hotels in regions such as Chiang Mai.
Getting around
Bangkok is possibly the world's most congested city, and its traffic jams and pollution are notorious. It is, however, very easy to find transport of all kinds, including riverboats, public buses, limousines and tour buses run by hotels, as well as taxis and colourful tuk-tuks and samlors (bicycle rickshaws) which are found throughout the country. Songthaews – vans with two rows of seats in the back – are more common than city buses outside Bangkok and run popular routes for set fares. The Bangkok Metro (BMCL – Subway) operates every day from 6am until midnight every five minutes during peak hour and seven minutes in off-peak times. It is clean and extremely efficient. The BTS Skytrain covers much of the central city and its many commercial, residential and tourist areas. It has the added bonus of seeing the city from a birds eye perspective.
Food and entertainment
Renowned for its quality and diversity, Thai cuisine is as much a feast for the eyes as the stomach. And while eating for most Thai people is an informal, social activity, even the simplest of dishes is often served with a carved carrot flower or spring onion tassel, and sometimes fruit and vegetable sculptures. Meals are rich and spicy, and seafood, including crab, fish, lobster and shrimp, feature heavily.
Bangkok has restaurants of all nationalities and styles, from street stalls to elegant restaurants at deluxe hotels. The Dome at State Tower, for example, has a number of trendy bars and restaurants. Outside Bangkok, there are restaurants specialising in various national cuisines as well as the typical spicy northern delicacies.
In Chiang Mai, the best way to sample the local fare is to order a Kantok dinner which features a variety of dishes served with sticky rice. Rayong and Chanthaburi on the east coast are known for their succulent seafood as well as tropical fruits including durian, rambutans, custard apples and mangosteens.
Those looking for nightime entertainment will find all sorts of action in Bangkok. Neon-lit bar districts, pubs, discos, live music, theatre, classical dance, cultural shows, night markets and many other distractions abound. For alternative night entertainment, check out the night markets behind Ratch-aprarop Road in Pratunam. A night market in Hua Hin displays locally produced silk and cotton items and the region's famed 'kanom' Thai sweets.
Activities
Thai boxing, or Muay Thai, Thailand's national sport, is fast gaining popularity worldwide. The sport is highly ritualistic, but fights are fierce and furious. The ultra fit combatants use their elbows, knees and bare feet as well as gloved fists. Professional bouts are held almost every night at either of the two boxing stadiums in Bangkok. Golf, tennis, squash, darts and table tennis are also popular, and every imaginable watersport is available at the seaside resorts.
Shopping
The good quality, wide variety and reasonable prices of many Thai goods have long been a major attraction for tourists. Arts and crafts range from wicker rice steamers and triangular, patterned cushions to antiques. Internationally renowned Thai silks are available in a fascinating array of colours and designs. Tailors, particularly in Bangkok, can make clothes in any fabric to high standards and low prices. There are huge, modern shopping malls and other retail shops, but it is at the colourful markets at the heart of every Thai town that visitors can have fun bargaining with vendors.
Climate
The climate varies from north to south. There are three seasons, with March to May reaching 40°C. June to October is the wet season and November to February is the cool season at 27°C.
Casual clothing is worn by most visitors to Thailand. More respectable attire is recommended for top hotels and restaurants. Skimpy clothing is forbidden in religious places.
Currency
The currency is the Thai Baht. A service charge is included in most bills. Only tip for special service. Porters expect about 10 baht per piece of luggage. A tip consisting of coins is considered offensive.
Thailand FAQs
1. How do I get to my hotel from the airport?
If you have pre-booked your accommodation, enquire as to whether your hotel or resort offers a door-to-door airport transfer service. Otherwise, there is an abundance of transport options available. From Bangkok International Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) airport buses run to the city for a modest fare, and there is also a rail station located nearby. Private minibuses also run from the airport to city destinations and beyond, and there are taxis and limos waiting just outside the terminals.
From Phuket International Airport, there are taxis, limousines, airport busses, private minivans and car rental services available. Taxis and limousines are your fastest option, while the Airport Bus is the cheapest- however this service only stops in Phuket town and runs every hour. Minivans are reasonably priced, however most of these services stop over at tour agencies on the way where you are then asked if you'd like to book a tour, from which the driver makes a commission.
2. Where do I exchange my money while I'm on holiday?
Banks or private moneychangers offer the best foreign-exchange rates, however private moneychangers in Thailand are not quite as prevalent. Banks charge a commission and duty for all travellers cheques cashed. Current exchange rates are printed in the Bangkok Post and The Nation every day, or you can walk into any Thai bank and request a daily rate sheet.
3. What do I need to pack for my trip?
Documents and money
Make sure you photocopy all travel documents, and keep safe and separate from your passport, credit cards, travellers cheques etc. A 'money belt' is recommended, as is a padlock for your suitcase.
Toiletries
Shampoo, soap, repellants and all other heavy and bulky items such as these can all be purchased in Thailand. This will save you from hauling them around in your suitcase unnecessarily.
Clothing
Thailand is largely tropical, so it's hot and humid all year round with temperatures within the 28-35 degrees Celsius range. Bringing three to four sets of clothing is sufficient, as laundry services are both prevalent and inexpensive. Due to the heat, lightweight cotton is recommended, as is a hat to provide protection from the sun. If you are between a size small and large, it's recommended you buy part of your holiday wardrobe when you arrive in Thailand, as clothing is relatively cheap and accessible. You will need to pack comfortable walking shoes, as well as sandals, as larger sized footwear is hard to find in Thailand.
Please note: when visiting temples you must dress conservatively as its unacceptable to have your shoulders exposed. It's advised to pack a change of clothing that covers both your arms and legs, as well as shoes that (at a minimum) have a strap at the back for these occasions.
Medications
Most common medications are available in Thailand, in some cases, without a prescription. However, it's advised you bring any necessary prescription medication with you, along with a letter from your doctor for customs purposes.
Other useful items
Power converter/ adapter
Reading material
First aid kit
Sleeping bag
Lightweight raincoat (if travelling during the rainy season.)
Sealable plastic bags (for damp clothes, toiletries, food etc.)
If you have pre-booked your accommodation, enquire as to whether your hotel or resort offers a door-to-door airport transfer service. Otherwise, there is an abundance of transport options available. From Bangkok International Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK) airport buses run to the city for a modest fare, and there is also a rail station located nearby. Private minibuses also run from the airport to city destinations and beyond, and there are taxis and limos waiting just outside the terminals.
From Phuket International Airport, there are taxis, limousines, airport busses, private minivans and car rental services available. Taxis and limousines are your fastest option, while the Airport Bus is the cheapest- however this service only stops in Phuket town and runs every hour. Minivans are reasonably priced, however most of these services stop over at tour agencies on the way where you are then asked if you'd like to book a tour, from which the driver makes a commission.
2. Where do I exchange my money while I'm on holiday?
Banks or private moneychangers offer the best foreign-exchange rates, however private moneychangers in Thailand are not quite as prevalent. Banks charge a commission and duty for all travellers cheques cashed. Current exchange rates are printed in the Bangkok Post and The Nation every day, or you can walk into any Thai bank and request a daily rate sheet.
3. What do I need to pack for my trip?
Documents and money
Make sure you photocopy all travel documents, and keep safe and separate from your passport, credit cards, travellers cheques etc. A 'money belt' is recommended, as is a padlock for your suitcase.
Toiletries
Shampoo, soap, repellants and all other heavy and bulky items such as these can all be purchased in Thailand. This will save you from hauling them around in your suitcase unnecessarily.
Clothing
Thailand is largely tropical, so it's hot and humid all year round with temperatures within the 28-35 degrees Celsius range. Bringing three to four sets of clothing is sufficient, as laundry services are both prevalent and inexpensive. Due to the heat, lightweight cotton is recommended, as is a hat to provide protection from the sun. If you are between a size small and large, it's recommended you buy part of your holiday wardrobe when you arrive in Thailand, as clothing is relatively cheap and accessible. You will need to pack comfortable walking shoes, as well as sandals, as larger sized footwear is hard to find in Thailand.
Please note: when visiting temples you must dress conservatively as its unacceptable to have your shoulders exposed. It's advised to pack a change of clothing that covers both your arms and legs, as well as shoes that (at a minimum) have a strap at the back for these occasions.
Medications
Most common medications are available in Thailand, in some cases, without a prescription. However, it's advised you bring any necessary prescription medication with you, along with a letter from your doctor for customs purposes.
Other useful items
Power converter/ adapter
Reading material
First aid kit
Sleeping bag
Lightweight raincoat (if travelling during the rainy season.)
Sealable plastic bags (for damp clothes, toiletries, food etc.)
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